… Laments Nigeria’s UNHRC Bid Failure
In the wake of Nigeria’s recent unsuccessful bid to join the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, remains deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Nigeria.
HURIWA in a statement signed by its national coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko lamented that Nigeria as a nation with immense potential, has unfortunately been faced with persistent challenges of human rights violations.
The group also said that the inability to secure a seat on the UNHRC has raised serious concerns within the international community.
According to HURIWA ‘’Nigeria has grappled with some of the highest cases of human rights violations, including official misappropriation of budgets meant for critical sectors such as health, education, and road infrastructure. Tragically, these violations have resulted in early and avoidable deaths of hundreds of citizens, undermining their fundamental right to life.’’
‘’Furthermore, there are alarming reports of political opponents being detained, including the erstwhile CBN Governor, and the controversial circumstances surrounding the resignation of Abdulrasheed Bawa. These incidents raise significant concerns regarding political freedoms and due process in the country.’’
‘’The extrajudicial execution of suspects by the police has reached an alarming peak, reflecting a dire need for comprehensive reform within the law enforcement agencies. Regrettably, the Police Service Commission appears ill-equipped and incompetent to effectively indict, prosecute, and punish individuals responsible for these crimes, especially those in police uniforms.’’
The civil rights group strongly urged the Nigerian government to address these pressing human rights issues, demonstrating a genuine commitment to upholding fundamental freedoms.
‘’We call upon the government to take meaningful steps towards transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights.’’ They added.
